Infrastructure Grants

The City of Fishers 2024 Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant is a matching grant program designed to fund creative and innovative ideas that enhance the community's beauty and positively impact the lives of residents in a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial manner. While a specific "foundation mission alignment" isn't explicitly stated for a city grant, the program's purpose clearly aligns with a civic mission of improving the quality of life and fostering community engagement within Fishers. The grant aims to transform public spaces and encourage sustainable practices, reflecting a strategic priority of community development and environmental stewardship. The target beneficiaries of this grant are neighborhood groups and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) located within Fishers City Limits. The impact goals are to make the community a more beautiful place to live, and to affect the lives of the community at large. This is achieved through projects that focus on design, construction, or installation, with a strong emphasis on visibility and positive effect on Fishers as a community. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial incentives for resident-led improvement projects, the city can foster a greater sense of community pride and improve the local environment, leading to a more vibrant and livable city for all. Priorities for the grant include projects with the greatest visibility and positive effect on Fishers. Preferred projects range from converting high-maintenance lawns to native plantings, installing shoreline plantings and rain gardens, creating Monarch Butterfly Waystations and Wildlife Habitat Corridors, establishing Neighborhood Community Gardens, and improving common area trails and parks with amenities like picnic shelters and accessible playground equipment. Other priorities include connecting neighborhood walking trails, installing solar lights or other renewable energy projects, and improving pedestrian connectivity or tactical urbanism. Grants are competitive and will not be awarded for recurring or maintenance items, emphasizing the focus on new, transformative projects. The expected outcomes include more aesthetically pleasing public spaces, enhanced biodiversity through native plantings and habitats, improved recreational opportunities, increased pedestrian connectivity, and the adoption of sustainable energy solutions. Measurable results could include the number of acres converted to native plantings, the number of new community gardens established, the linear feet of trails improved or connected, and the number of solar lights installed. The maximum amount to be awarded per project is $25,000, and applicants must provide at least 20% of the total project cost, ensuring local investment and commitment to the success of these community-driven initiatives.

The South32 Hermosa Community Fund, established by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona and its affiliate, the Santa Cruz Community Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations operating within Santa Cruz County, Arizona. This grant program is aligned with the Foundation's mission to honor community diversity and promote equal opportunities by funding organizations that do not discriminate based on various protected characteristics. The fund emphasizes local impact, requiring applicants to be 501(c)(3) organizations based in and doing charitable work within Santa Cruz County, with local leadership, financial support, and program management. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are individuals living in Santa Cruz County, with a focus on improving their well-being through supported areas such as education and leadership, economic participation, good health and social well-being, and natural resource resilience. The impact goals are to foster collaborative community efforts, empower individuals, and achieve measurable progress in these key areas. The program seeks to support initiatives that strengthen the local community and address identified needs within Santa Cruz County. Priority for grants will be given to organizations that demonstrate collaborative approaches, involving staff, volunteers, and participants in planning and implementation. The fund also prioritizes programs that enable individuals to enhance their skills, abilities, and assets, focusing on strengths rather than deficiencies. This aligns with a strategic priority to empower individuals and build community capacity. Expected outcomes include clearly articulated and measurable progress toward program goals, with organizations able to collect data to demonstrate these achievements. The Foundation also looks for clear plans for program sustainability beyond the grant period, indicating a commitment to long-term impact. This reflects the Foundation's theory of change, which emphasizes data-driven results and sustainable community solutions to address local challenges. Up to $80,000 is available each cycle, with individual requests considered up to $10,000.

The Arlington County Department of Human Services is offering a grant funding opportunity to support its Food Security Strategic Plan. This initiative aligns with the department's mission to address food insecurity and improve nutrition equity within Arlington County. The grant aims to support projects that enhance food access, promote outreach and education, build capacity among food assistance providers, and facilitate informed decision-making through data collection. The maximum grant award for a single project is $25,000, with funds to be spent by June 30, 2025. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Arlington County residents experiencing food insecurity. The program targets various populations through strategies such as enhancing school-based supplemental food offerings, establishing new charitable food distributions in underserved neighborhoods, and increasing nutrition education opportunities for residents of all ages. The overarching impact goal is to eliminate, reduce, and prevent disparities in food security, ensuring that all those in need receive adequate support. The grant prioritizes projects that address at least one of five key strategies outlined in the Strategic Plan: Systemic Change, Food Access, Outreach & Education, Capacity Building, and Informed Decision Making. Specific focuses include improving nutrition equity, increasing food rescue and redistribution, promoting food assistance resources like SNAP, developing training materials for staff and volunteers, and collecting data on usage trends and services. Eligible organizations include IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and public schools or universities that serve Arlington residents. Expected outcomes include improved access to nutritious food for Arlington residents, increased awareness and enrollment in food assistance programs, enhanced operational capacity for food pantries and meal programs, and better-informed decision-making based on collected data. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of residents served, the quantity of food distributed, the number of individuals participating in nutrition education, and the implementation of new or improved food security policies and practices. The grant period is from October 2024 through June 30, 2025, with funding awards announced in September 2024.

The Living Cultures Grant, offered by the Alliance for California Traditional Arts, is designed to sustain and strengthen traditional arts across California. This program aligns directly with the Alliance's mission by supporting the nurturing of cultural continuity, sustaining cultural practices, and engaging communities through public programs. The grant's focus on traditional arts, which are deeply rooted in shared heritage, language, religion, occupation, or region, reflects the foundation's strategic priority of preserving and promoting the diverse cultural expressions within the state. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are individual artists/culture bearers and California-based nonprofits, Tribal Nations, and other community groups who actively practice traditional arts. The program aims to achieve several impact goals: fostering cultural continuity through learning and practice, sustaining cultural practices by providing necessary resources for purchases and services, and engaging communities through public programs that share these traditions. The theory of change suggests that by providing financial support to these practitioners and organizations, traditional arts will continue to thrive, be passed down through generations, and enrich the cultural landscape of California. The grant prioritizes proposals that demonstrate clear plans for nurturing cultural continuity, sustaining cultural practices, and engaging communities. This includes projects across various traditional art forms such as dance, music, foodways, material arts, and oral traditions. The Alliance seeks to ensure that these deeply rooted artistic expressions, reflective of a community's shared values and experiences, continue to be vibrant and accessible. Expected outcomes include the continued practice and transmission of traditional arts, increased community engagement with cultural heritage, and the preservation of diverse artistic forms. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the scope of funded activities (e.g., projects should run between November 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025), the inherent goal is to see a thriving ecosystem of traditional arts. For individual artists, the grant supports their practice directly, while for organizations, it supports activities that further their cultural programs and community outreach, aiming for a sustained impact on California's traditional arts landscape.

The Minnesota Housing, in collaboration with Greater Minnesota Housing Fund (GMHF), is launching the Single Family RFP through its Community Homeownership Impact Fund. This initiative is designed to expand and preserve affordable homeownership opportunities across all counties in Minnesota. The program’s mission aligns closely with the foundation’s broader vision: ensuring that every Minnesotan has access to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing. By focusing on single-family, owner-occupied homes, this funding opportunity aims to address both supply and quality gaps, particularly in underserved and economically marginalized communities. Through multiple financing mechanisms—grants, deferred loans, housing infrastructure bonds, and interim loans—the program seeks to foster community stability, economic inclusion, and equitable pathways to homeownership. The program’s primary beneficiaries are low- to moderate-income households, with a targeted emphasis on households of color, immigrant households, and those including people with disabilities. This focus reflects GMHF’s commitment to applying a racial and economic equity lens to homeownership initiatives, aiming to reduce historic disparities in property ownership and wealth accumulation. Targeted investments will support both the creation of new affordable housing units and the rehabilitation of existing homes, ensuring that communities not only gain new housing stock but also preserve their existing neighborhoods. Special priority will be given to applicants leveraging cross-sector collaborations—particularly in health and housing—to improve overall community well-being. Strategically, the program prioritizes projects that deliver tangible, lasting impact. Priority activities include acquisition, rehabilitation, and resale of existing properties; new construction of single-family homes; and stand-alone affordability gap assistance. Additional emphasis is placed on projects that advance Tribal housing initiatives, ensuring that Tribal Nations and communities have equitable access to homeownership opportunities. By offering flexible funding types—including forgivable loans and deferred downpayment assistance—the program allows local governments, nonprofits, Tribal entities, and developers to structure their projects to meet community-specific needs and financial realities. Expected outcomes are centered on measurable, high-impact results. Awarded projects must lead to the creation or preservation of affordable, owner-occupied homes with no more than four units, ensuring at least one unit is owner-occupied. The program anticipates that these efforts will expand the affordable housing inventory, increase homeownership rates among underrepresented populations, and stabilize neighborhoods. Success metrics will include the number of homes developed or rehabilitated, the number of households served, demographic diversity among beneficiaries, and the degree to which affordability thresholds are met and maintained. Additionally, the program seeks to generate long-term community benefits such as improved health outcomes, greater neighborhood investment, and increased intergenerational wealth. The foundation’s strategic priorities and theory of change rest on the belief that stable, affordable homeownership is a critical lever for advancing economic mobility and community resilience. By combining capital investment with equitable housing strategies, the program aims to dismantle systemic barriers to homeownership and create conditions for sustained prosperity. Through partnerships with municipalities, Tribal governments, nonprofits, and developers, Minnesota Housing and GMHF are fostering a collaborative ecosystem that ensures funding leads to meaningful, measurable, and community-driven change. This initiative is not merely about building houses—it’s about empowering people, strengthening communities, and reshaping the housing landscape in Minnesota for a more inclusive future.

The Community Waste Reduction Grant (CWRG) is a competitive program offered by the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) in Franklin County, Ohio. Its primary mission is to fund innovative projects that significantly reduce waste and/or increase the diversion of recoverable materials from the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill. This aligns with SWACO's broader objective of promoting sustainable waste management practices within central Ohio. The program targets local governmental or non-profit organizations, including cities, townships, villages, parks, K-12 schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, and churches, that serve the unique waste reduction and material diversion needs of central Ohio. The impact goal is to assist these organizations in building sustainable programs, projects, and services that address these needs, ultimately benefiting the community and the environment by reducing landfill dependence. Projects should prioritize addressing specific waste reduction, diversion, recycling, and composting needs within Central Ohio, emphasizing partnership building and collaboration. A key focus is on leveraging the waste stream for community and economic benefit. Funding is available for infrastructure, and outreach and education activities that promote reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting. Applications that implement reduction and diversion processes and systems, alongside outreach and education, are strongly encouraged. Expected outcomes include establishing, improving, or expanding waste reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, or food donation activities within SWACO's jurisdiction. Grantees are required to document and measure the impact of their project's activities, with projects needing to be completed by December 31, 2025, and a final report submitted. While specific strategic priorities and a formal theory of change from a "foundation" are not explicitly detailed, SWACO's role as the donor suggests its strategic priority is the overall reduction of waste and increased material diversion in Franklin County, achieved through community-led initiatives and measurable results.

The 2025 Clean Water Construction Treatment Works Projects grant program, offered by the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), seeks to fund voluntary projects that will enhance clean water in District streams and rivers. This initiative directly aligns with the broader mission of environmental stewardship and public health by addressing critical water quality issues within the District. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are the residents and ecosystems of the District of Columbia, who will benefit from improved water quality and a healthier environment. The program's impact goals are centered on achieving compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA) and fostering a sustainable water infrastructure. This will lead to cleaner waterways, enhanced biodiversity, and a safer environment for all District inhabitants. The program prioritizes projects within four key categories: Sewage Infrastructure, Stormwater Grey Infrastructure, Stormwater Green Infrastructure, and Emerging Contaminants Infrastructure. These categories reflect strategic priorities aimed at comprehensive water management, addressing both traditional and emerging threats to water quality. The focus on these specific areas is designed to create a holistic approach to clean water initiatives, from reducing sewage overflow to managing urban runoff and tackling new pollutants. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in water pollution, improved ecological health of District streams and rivers, and enhanced public awareness of clean water issues. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on CWA compliance strongly implies metrics related to water quality standards and pollutant reduction. The DOEE's strategic priorities, rooted in the Clean Water Act, guide this program, and it operates under the theory of change that by investing in infrastructure and innovative solutions, the District can achieve and maintain healthy water systems for current and future generations. The minimum project cost requirement of $250,000 indicates a focus on substantive, impactful projects.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Washington that focus on education, arts, health, human services, and public benefit initiatives.

The Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) is a discretionary reimbursement grant established by the City of Soldotna in 2012. Its primary goal is to revitalize commercial areas within Soldotna by stimulating private investment, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall visual appeal and vitality of the city's commercial districts. This program aligns with the City's long-range plan, Envision Soldotna 2030, specifically addressing goals such as promoting downtown development, encouraging redevelopment in key areas like the river and major highways, supporting diverse local businesses for a healthy economy, and improving the streetscape along major routes. The SIP targets property owners and business lessees within Soldotna’s commercial areas, with the aim of boosting traffic, increasing property values, and improving the city's aesthetic. The program prioritizes exterior improvements to business facades visible from the street, including elements like storefronts, windows, exterior lighting, canopies, awnings, painting, masonry work, permanent landscaping, decorative signs, and accessibility improvements. The emphasis is on transformative changes, and projects incorporating multiple elements receive greater weight during the competitive application process. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and attractive commercial landscape, increased foot traffic for local businesses, and an uplift in property values. By sharing the cost of beautification, the program seeks to empower local business owners to invest in their properties, contributing to a more prosperous local economy. While routine upkeep, maintenance, or required updates (e.g., signage due to change in ownership) are not eligible, the program encourages proactive improvements that enhance the architectural character and functionality of commercial buildings. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of beautified storefronts, a rise in new business openings or expansions in commercial areas, and potentially an increase in sales tax revenue for the city. The program's theory of change posits that by directly incentivizing aesthetic and functional improvements to business exteriors, the city can create a more inviting environment that attracts both residents and visitors, thereby stimulating economic activity and supporting the long-term health of its commercial sectors. The competitive application process ensures that funding is directed towards high-impact projects that best align with the program's objectives.

The Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment, in partnership with the Bay Foundation of Morro Bay, is offering a grant opportunity through the Central Coast Community-Based Water Quality Grants Program. This initiative focuses on supporting water quality-related projects within the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board’s jurisdiction. The program's core mission aligns with the Rose Foundation's broader goals of fostering environmental health and community well-being, specifically by addressing critical water issues in California's Central Coast. The program primarily targets projects that advance environmental justice and provide water quality benefits to underrepresented communities. This focus aims to address historical inequities and ensure that all communities have access to clean and safe water. The expected outcomes include tangible improvements in water quality, enhanced environmental justice outcomes, and increased resiliency for communities facing water-related challenges. Measurable results will likely involve reductions in pollutant loading, progress toward water quality objectives, and the preservation and restoration of watershed functions. Key priorities and preferred topic areas for this grant include the human right to water, environmental justice capacity building, and understanding the water quality impacts of climate change. The program also emphasizes drought-related water supply resiliency, climate adaptation and mitigation, sustainable drinking water and wastewater treatment, and sustainable groundwater management strategies. Additionally, projects that benefit marine habitats in San Luis Obispo County, reduce pollutant loading to meet Central Coast Basin Plan objectives, restore impaired waterbodies, implement on-farm Best Management Practices to reduce salt and nitrate, and prevent or address Harmful Algal Blooms are highly encouraged. The grant offers two funding tracks: a Large Grant Track for requests up to $200,000 (with most awards between $100,000-$200,000) and a Small Grant Track for requests up to $50,000 (with most awards between $20,000-$50,000). Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, federally recognized and State Indian tribes, and public agencies with jurisdiction over water resources management. All projects must be conducted within the Central Coast Water Board's Region 3 jurisdiction, encompassing Southern Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and portions of Ventura, Kern, and San Mateo Counties. The foundation's strategic approach underscores a commitment to community-driven solutions and measurable environmental impact through collaborative partnerships.

The Frank H. Stewart Trust provides grants primarily to assist municipalities within Gloucester, Salem, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Cape May Counties in New Jersey. The core mission of this grant program is to facilitate the acquisition of land for public use, specifically for parks, recreation grounds, game refuges, fishing or fish propagation, bird sanctuaries, and wildlife protection and preservation. This aligns with a foundational commitment to environmental conservation and public access to natural spaces. The Trust's strategic priority is to enhance public welfare through the creation and maintenance of accessible natural areas, reflecting a theory of change that postulates that by preserving land and making it available for public use, communities will benefit from increased recreational opportunities, biodiversity protection, and overall environmental health. The target beneficiaries are local municipalities within the specified New Jersey counties, with the ultimate impact goal of enriching public and ecological well-being in these regions. The Trust also extends support to prior grantees for the ongoing care, maintenance, upkeep, repair, and improvement of land previously purchased with Trust funds. This dual focus ensures not only the establishment of new public lands but also the sustained viability and quality of existing ones. The expected outcomes include an increase in dedicated public green spaces, improved habitats for wildlife, and enhanced recreational facilities for residents. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined: land must be dedicated to the public, have a flowing water course or be bounded by bodies of water, and be used for specific conservation and recreational purposes. Eligibility criteria also stipulate that grant recipients must obtain a resolution from their governing body dedicating the land to the public and provide a certified copy of the property appraisal. This rigorous approach ensures that funded projects align precisely with the Trust's mission and contribute to its long-term goals. Measurable results can be gauged by the number of acres of land purchased and dedicated for public use, the creation of new public parks and recreation areas, and the sustained maintenance of previously funded sites. The average total giving per year is $150,000, with individual grant sizes ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, indicating a significant investment in these environmental and community-focused initiatives. Applications must be submitted through an online form, ensuring an accessible and streamlined process for eligible municipalities.

The Devices Grants program, supported by the KC Digital Inclusion Fund (DIF), aims to bridge the digital divide by providing essential devices like computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This initiative directly aligns with the DIF's broader mission to advance a systemic strategy for digital equity, fill programmatic gaps, attract new funding, and strengthen Kansas City’s competitiveness for state and federal dollars. The program emphasizes supporting user interface devices to overcome technology barriers, rather than focusing on connectivity infrastructure or data plans. The target beneficiaries for this grant are individuals in need within the 9-county Greater Kansas City region, encompassing Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte, and Ray counties in Missouri, and Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami, and Wyandotte counties in Kansas. The program specifically targets populations with limited access to technology and digital resources, aiming to empower them to access the internet and enhance their digital literacy. The impact goals include increasing access to technology for underserved communities, improving digital literacy, and fostering better internet connectivity solutions. The funding priorities for Devices Grants are centered around projects that provide access to technology, offer digital literacy training, and implement internet connectivity solutions. Priority is given to projects that are aligned with a specific program, rather than just an organization or population, and that help outcome-oriented direct-service organizations fulfill their mission by overcoming technology barriers. The core focus area is "Access to Network." Eligible applicants are direct-serving 501(c)(3) public charities, educational or governmental entities serving people in need within the specified 9-county region. While the grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000, the available funding is up to $75,000 with an award range of $1,000 to $20,000. The grant period is up to 6 months, with all projects expected to be completed by March 31, 2025. Grantees are notified of award status via email around August 26, 2024. The expected outcomes are that recipient organizations will be better equipped to serve their communities by providing necessary devices, ultimately leading to increased digital inclusion and improved access to digital resources for vulnerable populations.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CT DOT) is offering the 2024 Active Transportation Microgrant Program to solicit projects aimed at improving active transportation. This grant program aligns with a mission to foster equitable, safe, accessible, and sustainable transportation options, thereby encouraging healthier and more environmentally friendly travel modes. The program's core objective is to make conditions safer for individuals of all ages to engage in walking, biking, and other active forms of transit, contributing to broader community well-being and environmental sustainability. The primary beneficiaries of this program include municipalities, schools, school districts, and nonprofit organizations, all of which are encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered on enhancing access and conditions for active transportation users across Connecticut. This includes increasing safety for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting the use of non-motorized transport, and supporting educational initiatives that raise awareness about active transportation benefits and safety. The program prioritizes non-infrastructure projects, explicitly excluding design and construction costs. Eligible activities focus on improving access and conditions for active transportation users. This includes providing bicycle helmets, locks, lights, and maintenance training. It also covers the rental or purchase of bicycle fleets, including adaptive bicycles, League Cycling Instructor (LCI) training, and various programs and materials for pedestrian and bicycle safety education, such as safety vests. The emphasis is on practical, immediate interventions that directly support active transportation without requiring extensive infrastructural development. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the adoption of active transportation methods, a reduction in accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists due to enhanced safety measures, and a rise in community participation in active transportation events and educational programs. The funding limits for individual microgrants range up to $5,000, with an overall grant size between $1,000 and $10,000, indicating a focus on numerous smaller-scale, impactful projects rather than a few large ones. This approach suggests a strategic priority to broadly distribute resources to foster active transportation at a grassroots level across various communities in Connecticut.

CJI’s Leadership Circle is soliciting proposals from grassroots organizations led by formerly incarcerated and directly impacted individuals. The program aims to transform and reimagine the U.S. criminal legal system by building alternative community-based solutions and organizing to prevent the criminalization of marginalized identities and communities. This initiative directly aligns with CJI's mission to support meaningful, transformative, and systemic change within the criminal legal system, empowering future leaders who have often experienced incarceration themselves. The foundation's strategic priority is to support movement-building organizing that creates a new world, a "world they demand NOW." The target beneficiaries are formerly incarcerated individuals and directly impacted people, including primary family members, as well as marginalized groups within their communities (e.g., poor, houseless, young, elders, queer, trans, people with mental illness, people with disabilities). The program's impact goals include ending mass criminalization and incarceration, creating safe and healthy communities that do not rely on arrest and incarceration, and re-establishing rights and access for those formerly incarcerated or newly criminalized. The Leadership Circle's theory of change emphasizes shared authority among donors and community organizers, many of whom have lived experience with incarceration, to drive systemic change. The program prioritizes several key areas. This includes building alternatives to traditional carceral systems, investing in approaches that end mass criminalization, creating policies to reform and dismantle repressive legal systems, and uplifting the leadership and experience of those affected by the criminal legal system. Other focuses include re-establishing rights for formerly incarcerated individuals, promoting transformative and restorative justice, and supporting culturally appropriate healing programs connected to the criminal justice movement. CJI also has specific funding preferences for organizations led by formerly incarcerated individuals, groups operating in difficult political environments, those developing new leaders from marginalized backgrounds, and work addressing discrimination against incarcerated or detained people, particularly in the South, Indian country, and other rural areas. Expected outcomes and measurable results include the development of community-based interventions, changes in policies and institutions (like parole and probation), and a demonstrable commitment to systems change through organizing. The program seeks to empower new leaders, particularly from marginalized communities, and foster innovative collaborations among diverse organizations. While specific quantitative metrics are not provided in the description, the emphasis on "movement-building organizing" and "achieving systems change" suggests that the success will be measured by the demonstrable impact on criminal legal system reform and the empowerment of affected communities. CJI is particularly committed to supporting smaller, emerging organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, indicating a focus on grassroots impact and capacity building.

The Essex County Division of Cultural and Historical Affairs, in partnership with the New Jersey Historical Commission and the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, offers grant funding to local Essex County organizations. This program aims to support cultural and historical initiatives within the county, aligning with the broader mission of preserving and promoting arts and history. The grants are designed to enable organizations to expand their programs, exhibits, performances, and other public engagement opportunities, ultimately enriching the cultural landscape of Essex County. The program targets non-profit organizations incorporated in New Jersey as a non-profit corporation or a unit of government, and tax-exempt under IRC 501(c)3 or (c)4. These organizations must be located in Essex County and primarily serve its constituency. The grants are intended to support entities exclusively devoted to either history or arts, and previous grantees must be in good standing. This focus ensures that the funding directly benefits the local community and strengthens organizations dedicated to cultural and historical preservation. The grant program offers two main types of support: General Operating Support (GOS) Grants for the overall operations of eligible non-profit organizations, and Special Project Support (SPS) Grants for specific history-related or art-related projects. The funding ranges from $500 to $10,000, with funds applied for in 2024 to be used between January and December 2025. This structure allows for both sustained operational support and targeted funding for new initiatives, providing flexibility to grantees. Expected outcomes include an increase in accessible cultural and historical programs, exhibits, and performances for Essex County residents. Measurable results would involve the number of programs offered, audience reach, and the successful completion of funded projects. The division's strategic priority is to empower local organizations to bring their offerings to a wider audience, thereby fostering a more vibrant and engaged community. Through quarterly networking, informational meetings, and professional development opportunities, the program also aims to build the capacity of these organizations, contributing to their long-term sustainability and impact.

The Beacon House Request for Proposals (RFP) from the Gateway Foundation aims to expand substance use disorder (SUD) services in Monterey County, California, through community-based funding. This initiative directly aligns with the Foundation's mission to re-invest in the Monterey County community by providing flexible grant funds to support local organizations. The program seeks to infuse financial resources for the operating, supporting, and/or renovation of SUD services, thereby improving access to treatment and recovery supports in the region. The target beneficiaries are individuals in Monterey County experiencing substance use disorder, with a specific focus on residents who make up at least 50% of the clients served by recipient organizations. The impact goals are centered on expanding access to SUD services and recovery support, as well as increasing the capacity of service providers. By providing flexible one-time costs, the Gateway Foundation intends to address critical gaps in service provision and enhance the overall health and well-being of the community. The program prioritizes established 501(c)3 non-profit organizations that are licensed by the state of California to provide behavioral health services, currently operate in Monterey County, and utilize evidence-based services. Grant funds can be used for a variety of purposes including staff development, training, equipment, repairs & maintenance, expansion of services/access, and reasonable start-up operational costs (not exceeding 50% of the total funding request). This flexible approach ensures that the funds can be tailored to the specific needs of local providers to achieve the greatest impact. Expected outcomes include improved access to SUD treatment and recovery services, enhanced capacity of behavioral health organizations in Monterey County, and a strengthened network of local service providers. The Gateway Foundation's strategic priority is to support organizations that can demonstrate a history of providing behavioral health services, sound financial management, and a client base predominantly from Monterey County. The underlying theory of change is that by investing directly in local, established providers, and allowing for flexible use of funds for one-time costs, access to essential SUD services will significantly improve, leading to better community health outcomes. The project period for funding is September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025.

The Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF) Micro-Grant Program, established by the City of La Crosse, aims to empower youth aged 15-24 to address urgent climate challenges within their community. This program directly aligns with the City's Climate Action Plan by activating youth-led initiatives. The foundational mission of this grant is to foster environmental stewardship and action among young residents, contributing to the broader strategic priorities of the City in climate mitigation and adaptation. The primary beneficiaries of this program are young individuals and youth-led groups between the ages of 15-24, residing in or directly benefiting the city of La Crosse. The overarching impact goal is to create a tangible difference in the local environment through youth-driven projects, thereby fostering a generation of climate-conscious leaders and contributing to the city's sustainability objectives. Projects must fit within the strategies of the City’s Climate Action Plan, ensuring alignment with municipal environmental goals. The program prioritizes several key areas. These include youth-led awareness, education, research, and development initiatives, such as climate education programs, hackathons, surveys, and public art campaigns. Additionally, youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects are highly encouraged, encompassing community gardening, tree planting, waste reduction, and climate resilience workshops. Finally, co-governed youth climate action plans, which involve partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform policy and decision-making, are also a core focus. Expected outcomes include a more engaged and educated youth population regarding climate issues, the implementation of various local sustainability projects, and a reduction in the city's environmental footprint. Measurable results could involve the number of participants in youth-led initiatives, the amount of waste reduced, the number of trees planted, or the development of new climate-related policies influenced by youth input. The program’s theory of change posits that by providing direct funding and support to youth-led projects, it will catalyze innovative solutions and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among young people for their local environment, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of La Crosse.

The Anchor Building Program, provided by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA), offers funding to local governments, 501(c)3 non-profits, and municipal authorities. Its core mission is to strengthen communities, neighborhoods, and commercial districts by redeveloping, enhancing, and preserving underutilized or vacant buildings. These buildings are seen as catalysts for greater investment and commercial or social activity, aligning with ECGRA's broader goal of fostering community revitalization and economic development in Erie County, Pennsylvania. The program targets historically, culturally, architecturally, and/or socially significant buildings, often located in the heart of the community. The beneficiaries are the communities themselves, small businesses, and residents, through the creation of jobs and enhanced local tax bases. The impact goals are multifaceted: to adaptively re-use significant buildings, to leverage private investment, and to support small businesses. The program directly addresses the financial challenges often associated with re-using older buildings, such as high construction costs relative to modern codes, lack of financial resources, and low appraisal values. Key priorities and focuses of the Anchor Building Program include bridging the funding gap for older building re-use and encouraging the adaptive re-use of buildings with intrinsic historical, architectural, and/or cultural qualities. The program emphasizes the quality of original construction, location, and suitability for new uses, recognizing these factors as crucial for successful redevelopment. ECGRA's strategic priority is evident in its focus on tangible, physical improvements that spur broader economic and social benefits. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased private investment, job creation, and a strengthened local tax base. The grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 per application, with a minimum request of $25,000, and a grant duration of 24 months. These financial parameters provide a clear framework for the scale of projects supported. The theory of change behind the program is that by investing in key anchor buildings, a ripple effect will be created, stimulating further private investment, fostering small business growth, and ultimately enhancing the overall vitality and economic health of Erie County's communities.

The California Fire Foundation (CFF) grant program is designed to actively address wildfire preparedness and prevention needs across California. This aligns directly with the foundation's mission to protect and enhance public safety, as well as the safety of California's firefighters and other first responders. By supporting projects in these critical areas, CFF aims to mitigate the growing threat of wildfires and safeguard communities throughout the state. The program seeks to fund initiatives that contribute to a more resilient California in the face of climate-caused disasters. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are California-based fire departments, firefighter associations, federally-recognized tribes, and local nonprofit organizations. Indirectly, the grant aims to benefit communities across California, with a specific focus on under-resourced communities at heightened risk and/or socially vulnerable populations. This includes low-income/impoverished individuals, minority status groups, those with limited English proficiency, people with disabilities, and seniors/older adults. The overarching impact goal is to reduce wildfire risk, enhance community safety, and support those most vulnerable to the effects of climate-caused wildfires and other disasters. The grant program prioritizes several key focus areas. These include vegetation mitigation and fuels reduction efforts, which directly address the physical conditions that contribute to wildfire spread. Additionally, the program supports education, planning, and community outreach campaigns to raise awareness and foster preparedness among residents. Finally, funding is available for the purchase of personal protective equipment or specialized firefighting equipment, directly enhancing the capabilities of first responders. In this cycle, a strong emphasis is placed on projects serving under-resourced communities and socially vulnerable populations in areas of heightened fire risk. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in wildfire occurrences and severity in funded project areas, an increase in community preparedness and awareness, and improved safety and operational effectiveness for fire departments and first responders. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the qualitative impact, the focus on tangible actions like fuels reduction and equipment purchases implies a direct and observable improvement in wildfire resilience. The CFF's strategic priority is to support proactive measures that prevent disasters and protect the most vulnerable, reflecting a theory of change that early intervention and targeted support lead to safer, more resilient communities. The grant period for projects is typically 12 months, encouraging timely completion and demonstrable impact.

The Oshkosh Area United Way (OAUW) is offering its 2025 Community Investment Grant, a funding opportunity designed for organizations in Southern Winnebago County, Wisconsin. This grant program aligns directly with OAUW's mission to address critical community needs by investing in programs focused on youth-focused education, mental health, and financial stability. The OAUW's strategic approach is to support initiatives that create long-term positive change and foster a thriving community in the Oshkosh area. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are residents of Southern Winnebago County, specifically within the zip codes 54901, 54902, 54903, 54904, 54906, 54927, 54963, 54964, 54980, 54985, and 54986. The OAUW aims to achieve significant impact by supporting programs that provide access to high-quality childcare and education, connect residents to health and human services (including healing and crisis intervention for mental health), and empower households to achieve financial stability through improved employment skills, reduced transportation barriers, and access to basic needs like food and shelter. The grant prioritizes programs in three key focus areas: Youth-Focused Education, Mental Health, and Financial Stability. Within Youth-Focused Education, OAUW seeks to fund programs that equip parents and children with tools for early childhood development and overall school and career readiness. For Mental Health, the focus is on connecting residents to support services for healing and crisis intervention. Financial Stability initiatives should improve skills for gainful employment, reduce transportation barriers, and offer essential resources such as food and shelter. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their programs benefit local residents, measure and track positive results for clients, maintain records, comply with anti-terrorist funding regulations, and practice non-discrimination. The OAUW will not fund individuals, religious activities serving only members, lobbying efforts, direct travel support (unless critical to an eligible program), advertising (beyond service awareness), endowments, capital campaigns, athletic associations, or fundraising events. The deadline for applications is June 28, 2024.